Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base expansion, funded by China, will open next month, welcoming a Japanese navy vessel as its first foreign warship. This development raises concerns about increased Chinese military presence in the Gulf of Thailand. Cambodian officials stress their commitment to allowing vessels from other nations, including the U.S., to utilize the facility.

Cambodia has announced the completion of the expansion of the Ream Naval Base, which was funded by China. This enhanced port facility will be inaugurated on April 2, with a Japanese vessel marking the first foreign warship to make a port call. Major General Thong Solimo, spokesman for Cambodia’s armed forces, highlighted this visit as a symbol of strong cooperation and mutual trust between Cambodia and Japan.

The port project was initiated in 2022, sparking concerns from the United States regarding its potential use as a strategic base for the Chinese navy in the Gulf of Thailand. This region is adjacent to the disputed South China Sea, wherein the U.S. maintains that international waters must be respected, countering China’s extensive territorial claims.

Concerns escalated last year as Chinese warships docked at the facility for extended periods. Euan Graham of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute remarked that Cambodia is likely attempting to assert its openness to other nations with Japan’s impending port call, indicating the Ream facility is not solely for Chinese military activities.

Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force acknowledged Cambodia’s invitation for warships but refrained from disclosing detailed information due to security protocols. China remains Cambodia’s largest investor and political partner, while Japan’s engagement suggests a developing balance of relationships in the region.

Worries regarding China’s activities at the Ream Naval Base surfaced in 2019, linked to a draft agreement allowing Chinese military presence. However, the Cambodian government has denied any intention to grant China special privileges at the base, affirming that all friendly foreign warships, including those from the U.S., are welcome provided they meet undisclosed conditions set by Cambodian authorities.

The expansion of Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base signifies growing geopolitical complexities in Southeast Asia, particularly concerning Chinese influence. Japan’s forthcoming naval visit emphasizes Cambodia’s intent to demonstrate its willingness to engage with multiple nations, which may help mitigate regional tensions. As the United States remains vigilant of China’s ambitions, the situation warrants close observation for implications on regional security dynamics.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk

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